How To Help Prevent Viral Respiratory Infections

Wellness

February 6 2020

The “common cold” is the most common infection one can contract. There are over 220 viral strains that can cause cold symptoms. Rhinovirus is the most frequent, responsible for 50% of infections. The coronavirus is a close second, causing 15 to 30% of all colds according to a 2012 study in the Journal of Virology.

Both SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and MERS (Middle East respiratory syndrome) are virulent strains of the coronavirus. The COVID-19 virus is feared to be just as infectious and dangerous.

Common cold symptoms include cough, runny nose, fever, sore throat, shortness of breath and fatigue. The COVID-19 strain can lead to pneumonia, respiratory failure, and even death. Antibiotics kill bacteria, not viruses, so prevention of infection and symptomatic care when afflicted is crucial.

Thousands of people have been infected worldwide with the COVID-19 strain. Over a hundred more have died. International travel via planes and trains makes passing on of the virus frightful.

Simple Strategies to Help Strengthen the Immune System and Prevent Viral Transmission:

Use your knuckles instead of fingertips to push open doors or press elevator buttons

Wear a facemask when using public transportation

Remain well hydrated

Consume a diet high in antioxidant containing foods (Fruits, vegetables)

Minimize the intake of sugar and processed foods

The following supplements may also be beneficial in preventing viral infections and fighting cold symptoms. Note: We make no claim about preventing the COVID-19 virus specifically, only viral infections in general.

Vitamin D

In my Southern California Practice, 80 percent of patients are vitamin D deficient. The incidence is higher in less sunny climates. I routinely recommend my patients supplement with vitamin D.

A 2019 study in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health concluded that those with higher blood levels of vitamin D were at lower risk for Upper Respiratory Infections compared to those with lower vitamin D blood levels.

In a 2017 study in the British Medical Journal, researchers evaluated 25 randomized controlled trials which included 11,321 participants, whose ages ranged from babies to 95 years of age.

In total, vitamin D supplementation reduced the risk of an upper respiratory infection by 12 percent. Those who had vitamin D blood levels less than 25 nmol/L (10 ng/dl) noticed the biggest benefit and saw a 70% decrease in infection rate when they were supplemented. In patients who had a vitamin D level greater than 25 nmol/L (10 ng/dl), a 25% reduction in respiratory infections was seen.

Suggested dose: 1,000-2,000 IU for children and 2,000 to 5,000 IU daily for adults.

Zinc

As we age, the absorption of important minerals like zinc can be impaired. The WHO or World Health Organization estimates that up to one-third of the world population is deficient in Zinc. Additionally, poor dietary intake of zinc-containing foods or routine ingestion of alcohol can also result in chronically low zinc levels. Zinc deficiency is associated with increased risk for infection, along with other issues.

A 2016 study in the British Journal of Clinical Pharmacology concluded, “common cold patients may be encouraged to try zinc lozenges for treating their colds” while a 2017 study concluded, “common cold patients may be instructed to try zinc lozenges within 24 hours of the onset of symptoms.”

Lastly, a 2018 study in the Journal of Immunology Research showed that a zinc deficiency could weaken the immune system and that zinc-dependent proteins are required to achieve an optimal immune response against invading pathogens.

Suggested dose: zinc lozenges, 30 mg as directed on the label. Also available in capsules and multivitamins.

Elderberry

Note: Although Elderberry appears helpful in preventing influenza, some evidence suggests it should NOT be taken to prevent or treat COVID-19.

Elderberry (Sambucus sp.), a flowering plant, has been used for hundreds of years for medicinal purposes by native populations all over the world. In recent years, elderberry’s popularity has caught on. Indigenous Americans are said to have used elderberries as treatment for various infections and fever.

A 2016 study showed that elderberry could reduce the duration of cold symptoms in airline travelers.

They found that Elderberry could substantially reduce upper respiratory infection symptoms. They concluded that “These findings present an alternative to antibiotic misuse for upper respiratory symptoms due to viral infections, and a potentially safer alternative to prescription drugs for routine cases of the common cold and influenza

Lastly, a 2001 study and 2002 study both showed elderberry’s benefit in strengthening the immune system response. This is key to preventing and fighting off any infection. In addition, a 2012 study concluded the concentrated juice of elderberry had a beneficial effect by stimulating the immune system’s response and thereby preventing a viral infection.

This article was written by Eric Madrid MD, ABIHM who is Board Certified by the American Board of Family Medicine and by the American Board of Integrative Holistic Medicine. He is author of Vitamin D Prescription, the Healing Power of the Sun. Dr. Madrid graduated from The Ohio State University School of Medicine. He is a partner at Rancho Family Medical Group and practices in Menifee, California. Get more info on Dr. Madrid here.

Feeling Fatigued? 5 Supplements For a Natural Boost of Energy

Search

Categories

Browse our blog posts by category:

Share

Disclaimer

This blog is not intended to provide diagnosis, treatment or medical advice. Content provided on this blog is for informational purposes only. Please consult with a physician or other healthcare professional regarding any medical or health related diagnosis or treatment options. Information on this blog should not be considered as a substitute for advice from a healthcare professional. The claims made about specific products throughout this blog are not approved to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

As part of our ongoing efforts to improve security for our customers, your current browser version will no longer be supported for iHerb starting 7/1/2018. Upgrade your existing browser using links below.